Charlie Manuel at this weekend's Philadelphia Sports Writers Dinner. Photo courtesy Fr. Ed Casey
Earlier this offseason, we learned that the Baltimore Orioles were interested in former Phillies manager Charlie Manuel to serve as their hitting coach. Manuel declined the offer, as did former Phillies Raul Ibañez and Jim Thome, instend opting to work with the Phillies instead. But the Orioles appear to be just one of many options for Manuel this offseason, but Manuel chose Philadelphia.
In this story from Meghan Montemurro of the Delaware News Journal, Manuel explained that he had options:
“There were jobs at the major league level – no one got in contact with me about being the manager – but I had some really interesting positions,” Manuel said. “But I really didn’t have to think about it or anything like that.
“I figured if I was going to do what I really wanted to do, I was going to stay with the Phillies and going to work with some of the players,” Manuel continued. “I want to be part of something and contribute and try to get back to the success that we’ve had and see our fans happy again.”
It sounds like Manuel will be a Phillie for life.
Manuel also spoke about what it is like for him to be around town in Philadelphia and how the fans react to him as he is out and about. Manuel and Philadelphia have a bond. Read Montemurro's piece here. You will enjoy it.
